Home Fire Safety Checklist

Whether you live in an area at risk from bushfires or you just want to be confident that your loved ones are safe, learning how to identify and avoid common fire hazards around the home, check your smoke alarms and prepare a home escape plan can save lives.

Follow this simple fire safety checklist to make your home a safer environment for everyone.

Electrical hazards

Replace any damaged or faulty electronics as soon as possible

Install additional power outlets rather than using power boards

Clean out the lint filter before operating the clothes dryer

Leave enough space for airflow around washing machines and dryers

Switch of all appliances when not in use

Heating and cooking hazards

Never leave active cooking appliances or open flames unattended

Install safety guards around heaters, stoves and open fires

Clear at least one metre of space around heaters

Carefully inspect gas cylinders and hoses before lighting BBQs

Make sure BBQs are supervised by an adult and are located away from grass or wooden decks

Other fire hazards

Keep lighters and matches away from children

Store chemicals and fuels away from heat sources

Make sure mowers and other vehicles are cool before refuelling

Clear away leaves and litter from around your home and clean our your gutters regularly

Never smoke in bed

Smoke alarms

Install smoke alarms on every level of the building

Install alarms outside all sleeping areas

Test all alarms at least once a month

Change all alarm batteries at least once a year

Clean all alarms at least once a year to keep them free from dust

Fire safety equipment

Keep fire extinguishers and fire blankets close to your kitchen and other high-risk areas

Check that fire extinguishers and fire blankets meet Australian Standards

Designate a safe meeting point outside the house in case of emergencies

Practise your home escape plan with the whole family on a regular basis

Make sure every member of the household knows your full address and nearby street names

Never deadlock doors when the home is occupied

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